мы vs вы

my vs vy — we vs you plural/polite

What it really means

Мы means we. Вы means you to more than one person and polite you to one person; capitalization Вы is conventional in formal direct address, not a grammar change.

Examples in natural speech

Мы живём рядом.
We live nearby.
Мы готовы.
We are ready.
Вы говорите по-русски?
Do you speak Russian?
Вы уже пришли?
Have you arrived already?
Дорогая Анна, Вы правы.
Dear Anna, you are right.

Common mistakes

Do not use ты with a stranger when polite вы is expected. Verb forms with вы are plural.

Memory tip

Вы is plural in grammar, even when politely addressing one person.

Frequently asked questions

Can вы address one person?

Yes, politely.

How do verbs agree with вы?

Plural.

When capitalize Вы?

Often in formal letters.

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